We started this blog as missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints serving in the Tennessee Nashville Mission. Originally this blog was meant to share the message of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. Although we are all home, we're going to keep posting- so check it out and comment!

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Sculptors of Life

“Sculptors of life are we, with our uncarved souls before us. Everyone of us is carving a soul.”-President David O. McKay

Here are just a few experiences that have shaped me.

I guess I'll claim 'em ;)

My familyDad taking time for me-shooting hoops, reading to us at night when i was really little. Mom calling us together for family prayer. Brian picking me up from a curb after I'd bombed a test and taking me to ice cream. Kevin, growing nasty mustaches. Yearly birthday letters from my Grandparents wishing me happy birthday and sharing their testimony of the Savior. Working in Grandma and Grandpa Stubbs yard. Yeah, wasn't a fan of that one at the time but it taught me a lot :)

Coolest girls I know

Good FriendsThe kind that make you laugh at yourself. The ones who challenge you to be more than you are but accept you where you're at.

Snowmobile. 4 feet of snow. Me and my brothers. Stuck.

TrialsMaking mistakes, overcoming grief, standing up when everyone else is sitting down, pulling out of stagnation. Giving it to Jesus Christ and applying the gospel teachings to my life. There always seems someone to turn to when I'm at a low. One time, my mission president's wife just called me up out of the blue and asked how I was doing. Little did she know, I had been praying all morning for an angel.

Richard Pape, Steven Jones, me, Sister Nielsen, and Sister Kao

ConversionBeing converted as I help convert others. Just one example, being able to see Steven accept the gospel of Jesus Christ just months prior to his death. He accepted the truth so quickly and happily. His strong and simple faith was a great example to me. I know that I will see Steven again as will his family.

I realize that the greatest gifts in life truly come from family and dear friends. All centering in the gospel of Jesus Christ. I know that this is the way to things that are real and true. Herein lies true and lasting happiness.

"Learning to endure times of disappointment, suffering, and sorrow is part of our on-the-job training. These experiences, while often difficult to bear at the time, are precisely the kinds of experiences that stretch our understanding, build our character, and increase our compassion for others."-Elder Wirthlin

I know that living the gospel of Jesus Christ allows God to sculpt us into the best we can possibly be-even as He is (Moroni 7:48). Because of Him, life is good. It is beautiful. We can have joy even as we carry great burdens.